Obituary: Richard John Rackow

Related Media

Richard "Dick" Rackow passed away on Monday, Aug. 28,2012 after a long illness.Born on June 12, 1928, Dick spent much of his youth in his hometown of Owatonna, Minn. Graduating from Owatonna High School in 1946, he went on to serve his country as a Midshipman with the United States Navy. During the Korean War Dick flew fighter planes off the USS Essex until 1953. Upon leaving the Navy Dick continued his world travels, flying for United Airlines for 35 years and retiring in 1988 as 747 Captain.Dick's love for aeronautics continued into his retirement as he tinkered with parts, rebuilt a fighter plane, and ran a successful N3N Bi-Plane touring business in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Always eager for a spirited debate, Dick was generally the boisterous, booming voice at any party with friends always near.Dick was a loving husband, a faithful father and a dear friend; he is survived by his wife, Janet, his son, Christopher, granddaughter, Makaela and four stepchildren.